Luke Bryan’s Trophy Came With Training Wheels

“Dude, seriously,” Little Big Town’s Jimi Westbrook told Luke Bryan, “what are you thinking trying to learn how to ride a bike at 40 years old? It doesn’t make a lot of sense.”

Bryan’s bike accident during his 2016 Farm Tour made him an easy target for humorous jab at the CMT Artists of the Year special that premiered Thursday (Oct. 20). When Little Big Town presented their Kill the Lights tourmate with his trophy, they also surprised him with a pint-sized bike with training wheels.

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“Luke,” Karen Fairchild said, “you might not have any balance, but you have a big ol’ heart.”

Very true. When Bryan accepted his trophy, he thanked his wife, management, his band and crew for all they do for him personally and professionally.

“People have asked me,” he said, “‘What’s been your favorite part of the year?’ My year has been so blessed by having these guys out with me, Little Big Town. And having Little Big Town and Dustin Lynch out with me, we have truly been a big big family. I’m going to miss you guys. I’ve loved every dadgum second of it.

“We don’t even know if we have designated dressing room. It’s like we just walk in and steal each other’s booze. And they do party more than me. I do want to go on the record stating that, and they taught me how to beat hangovers this year. But this has certainly been a dream-come-true night.

“When I don’t break bones and stuff and jack this whole deal up,” he added, “I’m having more fun than anybody in the whole audience every night onstage. And what a blessing to do what you love so much. Thank you so much for a great 2016.”

Bryan and Fairchild also performed their hit duet, “Home Alone Tonight.”